What is CNC Machining and How Does It Operate?
Blog | October 25th, 2017
Tool automation has undergone something of a revolution over the last two decades. Sure, the assembly line has been around for what feels like forever, but that’s not what we’re talking about. No, we’re referring to CNC Machining, an acronym that stands for Computer Numerical Control processing, a means of translating a software-rendered object into a real-world component. To better understand this digitally directed operation, we begin with some historical context.
Establishing the Numerical Codes
Retrofitted machines in old factories once used punch cards to trigger movement along a single axis and then manipulate a tool. Like the pins on the drum of a mechanical music box, the punch marks instructed lathes and drills. The results, instead of a tinny musical composition, were repeatedly produced parts profiles, components that were ready for the mass production market. Numerically coded made machine workshop automation a reality, but there was no procedural refinement here, no geometrical precision or true engineering adeptness in evidence just yet.
Then Came Computer Machining
Digital workspaces employ CNC Machining as an evolved interpretation of the above mode of automated operation. Take a look at the input system. The punch cards are gone. Now it’s computer space that provides fine grain control. Indeed, CAD (Computer Aided Design) programs have quickly taken on this role. Incredibly complex structures are built inside this virtual workspace. They’re dimensionally accurate and loaded with every conceivable product feature. From here, special computer languages translate this data into spatial coordinates, the numerical codes that manipulate the automated machinery. We’re talking about drills, lathes, milling machines, grinders, and practically every tool required to manufacture the most demanding part types in any industrial application.
What’s The Secret Ingredient?
The CAD programs are installed and the raw material is fastened in the machine cradle. Finally, the numerical codes are flying back and forth thanks to a proprietary coordinate/movement translation language. There’s still something missing, though. What about the spindles that manipulate the workpiece? Servo motors rotate the part through the X, Y, and Z planes simultaneously, which means the part can be rotated in any direction while it’s also moved up and down, left and right, and forward then backwards. Again, these 5-axis tools are manipulated by computers, by the CAD drawing rendered inside their digital brains, so the results are guaranteed to repeatedly imitate what’s held in that software.
CNC machining equipment is a key part of many manufacturing environments. Imagine receiving a product as an email attachment from a client. As long as it was recognized by the CAD software, it could be uploaded into the system then used to fabricate a newly designed food industry piece, as envisioned by that client. As long as the axis-assisted tools are in place, all that’s required is that CAD drawing, plus the services of an expert manufacturing facility.
Stecor Engineering & Fabrication
1/13 Crawford St, Braeside VIC 3195
Mobile: 0419 562 284
Phone: (03) 9028 4130
Fax: (03) 8669 4400
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